Breton Names for Boys
- Gael
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"Gaelic"Description:
This cross-cultural name, found in Wales, Brittany, and Spain, is a surprise star in the U.S. in recent years, largely thanks to actor Gael Garcia Bernal. It's especially popular in Texas.
- Mael
Origin:
French or BretonMeaning:
"chief or prince"Description:
The name of a fifth century Breton saint, Mael is a popular boys' name in contemporary France, though it is usually spelled with a diaeresis or umlaut - Maël. Mael is the Breton spelling, and the pronunciation is almost like the English word mile, with two distinctive syllables.
- Malo
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"shining hostage"Description:
Malo, the name of an important sixth century Breton saint who founded St. Malo, the charming port town in Brittany -- is considered quite au courant in France right now, ranking firmly in the Top 100.
- Kavan
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"battle"Description:
Rarely heard, and all too likely to be confused with Kevin.
- Oan
Origin:
BretonMeaning:
"lamb"Description:
A too-literal spin on Owen.
- Devi
Origin:
SanskritMeaning:
"divine"Description:
Devi is the name of a Hindu goddess. Deva or Dev are male forms.
- Yvan
Description:
Yvan is a masculine name primarily used in French-speaking regions and Eastern Europe, serving as a variant of Ivan, which itself derives from the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' The name has deep historical roots across Europe, with Ivan being the Slavic equivalent of John. Yvan offers a distinctive spelling that maintains the traditional pronunciation while giving the name a more unique written appearance. Popular in Quebec, France, Russia, and other Slavic countries, Yvan carries a cosmopolitan appeal that crosses cultural boundaries. The name projects strength and dignity while remaining relatively straightforward to pronounce. Less common than Ivan or Jean in most regions, Yvan provides a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with international resonance and historical depth.
- Kerouac
Origin:
Breton literary nameDescription:
Kerouac could make for a meaningful possible modern literary inspiration, via On the Road author Jack. The writer's baptism certificate read Jean Louis Kirouac, though he later claimed his full name was Jean-Louis Lebris de Kerouac.
- Jaffrez
Description:
Jaffrez is an uncommon masculine name with unclear origins, possibly a modern variant of Geoffrey or Jeffrey. These names derive from the Germanic name Godfrey, meaning 'peace of God' or 'divine peace.' The unusual spelling of Jaffrez might represent a creative adaptation or a cultural variation from French or Creole influences. The 'z' ending gives the name a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more traditional spellings. As a rare name, Jaffrez has very limited usage statistics and doesn't appear in most popularity charts. Parents choosing this name likely appreciate its uniqueness while maintaining connections to the more familiar Jeffrey lineage. The name offers a contemporary twist on a classic name with rich historical roots.
- Samzun
Description:
Samzun is a masculine name of uncertain origin, possibly representing a variant spelling of Samson, the biblical figure known for his extraordinary strength. The biblical Samson's name derives from Hebrew roots meaning 'sun' or 'sun child.' Alternatively, Samzun might be a creative modern variation or have origins in specific cultural naming traditions not widely documented. As an extremely rare name, Samzun offers distinctiveness while maintaining a connection to the more familiar Samson. The 'z' gives it a contemporary edge and unique visual character. The name carries connotations of strength from its potential biblical association while establishing its own identity through the unusual spelling pattern.